IHS consultancy augments 2021 campus dining and vending program

Consultant firm Innovative Hospitality Solutions said it is expanding its programs to help colleges and universities reposition their campus dining and vending services for a smooth reopening in the fall.

The IHS 2021 Campus Dining Consulting Program "combines extensive planning with a strict quality-assurance monitoring program and coaching that gives colleges and universities a better roadmap for post-COVID operations in their dining halls, retail food service, on campus restaurants, catering, c-stores, concessions and vending operations," the company said in a press release.

IHS principal Matt Mundok said colleges and universities will tackle one of their most difficult semesters in the fall. Many schools have been impacted by the financial burdens of COVID-19 meal plan refunds, lackluster food-service revenue, and fewer students living on campus over the past 18 months.

“It has been the perfect storm,” Mundok said. “Schools must plan now to craft workable solutions for the fall.”

IHS has been working with higher education institutions transform student and customer experiences since 2006. College and university clients include West Virginia, Penn State, Eastern Michigan University, Ursinus College, Cornell University, Stevens Institute of Technology and more. The consulting firm also works with healthcare systems and corporations.

The 2021 campus program involves more detailed planning, according to Mundok. It incorporates the company's CrossCheck program to monitor changes, validate feedback and advise on how to pivot, if needed, for the spring 2022.